Alex Horne and Greg Davies Discuss U.S. Tour of ‘Taskmaster’ on NPR
Alex Horne and Greg Davies, the creators and hosts of the popular British game show “Taskmaster,” recently discussed their U.S. tour on NPR. The show features five comedians competing in humorous and often absurd tasks designed to highlight their wit and creativity.
Overview of “Taskmaster”
“Taskmaster” challenges contestants with unconventional tasks like balancing an egg without breaking it and placing objects in surprising locations. These challenges serve to entertain and showcase the comedic talents of the participants.
The U.S. Tour Experience
Horne and Davies shared insights from their ongoing tour across the United States. The pair emphasizes that their goal is to present comedians in a non-scripted environment, allowing their true personalities to shine. The dynamic among contestants, who come from various comedic backgrounds, adds to the show’s appeal.
Selection of Contestants
- Each season features a diverse group of contestants.
- Horne carefully chooses personalities to ensure a balanced mix of competitiveness and comedic flair.
- Well-known comedians like Jason Mantzoukas and Kumail Nanjiani have participated, often revealing unexpected sides of themselves.
Creative Challenges
The creation of challenges for “Taskmaster” stems from Horne’s background as a comedian. He aims to design tasks that have multiple solutions, striking a balance between humor and difficulty. The evolution of the show over 21 seasons has led Horne to adapt his tasks to keep contestants challenged as they become familiar with his style.
Unique Points System
Davies admits that the show’s point system can appear arbitrary, yet it adds to the whimsical nature of the competition. The humor arises from how scores are assigned, often leading to surprising outcomes.
Future of “Taskmaster”
The 21st season of “Taskmaster” is set to air in spring 2024. Both Horne and Davies express excitement about continuing the series and exploring new creative avenues.
Conclusion
The integration of comedy, absurdity, and friendly competition makes “Taskmaster” a unique viewing experience. As Horne and Davies continue to tour and engage with fans in the U.S., they plan to keep the spirit of fun and unpredictability alive in the show.
